Vote upcoming on redevelopment of Bristol's Premier Inn

The 1970s building, converted into a hotel in 1999, would be demolished under the plans

Plans to redevelop an "eyesore" hotel have been recommended for approval ahead of a vote by councillors.

Developers have applied for permission to demolish the Premier Inn hotel on the Haymarket in central Bristol.

They plan to replace it with two tower blocks, one containing 422 student bedrooms, and 142 co-living bed spaces in the other.

Bristol City Council's planning committee will debate the proposals on 6 March.

Although there have been objections from residents, 65 letters of support have been submitted, citing concerns over the housing crisis.

Whitbread said it had made the decision to sell the Bearpit site because the 1972 building "is at the end of its life".

Two-thirds of the site's ground floor would be turned into public open space, with pedestrian routes connecting to Broadmead and the bus and coach station.

Affordable housing

The council officer's report recommended approval with conditions including affordable rent in 20% of the co-living studios and highway maintenance contributions.

It said: "The proposal would positively contribute to housing delivery in a sustainable location.

"Whilst it is acknowledged it would lead to the increase in the concentration of student accommodation in this area, it does also achieve a mix of uses, including the delivery of affordable housing."

Oliver d'Erlanger, from the developer, Olympian Homes, said: "It's a real boost for struggling Broadmead; bringing people to live, work and socialise in the city centre is the best way to regenerate it.  

"We've worked hard with council officers and other local stakeholders to ensure this mixed-used regeneration provides as many benefits to the city as possible."